The 2020 Men’s European Handball Championships continues today with matches main Main Round Group I. Here are the video links, odds and some predictions for those matches.

How to Watch Spoiler Free: Link

Thursday, 16 January
All Times Local (CET) / US ET is -6 hrs)
Odds courtesy of 10Bet <Open an account>

EHF Preview of day’s matches: Link

Main Round Group I (Vienna, Austria)

16:00 Croatia (-3) vs Czech Republic
Match Video (On Demand): Link (Commentary: Clayton Lucas)

18:15 Spain (-5.5) vs Belarus
Match Video (On Demand): Link (Commentary: Clayton Lucas)

20:30 Germany (-3) vs Austria
Match Video (On Demand): Link (Commentary: Clayton Lucas)

Main Round Group I continues, but after Croatia’s victory over German on Saturday there’s not a whole lot of drama left. Croatia has already qualified for the semifinals and Spain can join them with a win or draw vs Belarus. In fact, Belarus is the only team remaining with a “realistic” chance of taking Spain’s place. All they need to do is upset Spain, beat Austria in their final match and get Croatia to beat Spain. Not easy, but easier than Germany’s path which requires those things to happen and for Belarus to beat Spain by 7.

In short, the remaining drama is mostly waiting for the Croatia-Spain match on Wednesday to determine who will finish first and likely avoid Norway in a semifinal. The only other side drama will be the battle for the 2 Olympic Qualification slots. The nations in Main Round Group I that need a slot (Austria, the Czech Republic and Belarus) will likely need to take 3rd in the group to compete with the nations in Main Round Group II that need an Olympic slot (Slovenia, Hungary, Iceland and Portugal). Those nations seem poised to likely finish 2nd and 3rd, meaning that a 3rd place showing in Group I would set up a 5th place match for the last Euro placement qualifying slot.

Betting Predictions

For this tournament we’re doing some betting predictions using an imaginary starting bankroll of a 1,000 Euros. Joining me will be professional handball bettor, Samo Košmerl, from Slovenia.

Odds are from the 10 Bet Sportsbook <Open an account>

John’s Pick(s):
– Current Bankroll: 843.94 Euros
– Yesterday’s Result: Money Line bet: Iceland (to win) vs Portugal 2.70/+170; Bet 100 Euros to win 170; Won 170 Euros as Iceland beat Portugal 28-25
– Today’s Pick: Austria’s Nikola Bilyk (Under 5.5 goals) 1.80/-125; Bet 100 Euros to win 80; Bilyk scored 6 goals or more against weaker opposition, but managed only 3 goals against Spain and Croatia. Germany has little chance of making the semifinals, but they will stay play hard on defense and make it tough for Bilyk to score.

Samo’s Pick(s):
– Current Bankroll: 1,623.61 Euros
– Yesterday’s Results:
Sweden(+4) vs Norway (-119/1.84); Bet 100 Euros to win 84: Won 84 Euros as Sweden lost by 3, 23-20
– Today’s Pick: Croatia vs Czech Republic (over 52.5); 1.8/-125; Bet 100 Euros to win 80 Euros; Absolutely meaningless game for Croatia today against the Czech Republic. Coach Červar will look to avoid injuries and rest key players… But, they still have just 16 players available, so there is no B team that can play today. This will mean a lot more playing time for players like Šarac and Matanović. The over/under goal line looks a bit low for match like that.

The 2020 Men’s European Handball Championships continues today with three matches from Main Round Group II. Here are the video links, odds and some predictions for those matches.

How to Watch Spoiler Free: Link

Sunday, 19 January
All Times Local (CET) / US ET is -6 hrs)
Odds courtesy of 10Bet <Open an account>

EHF Preview of day’s matches: Link

Main Round Group II (Malmo, Sweden)

14:00 Portugal (-1.5) vs Iceland
Match Video (On Deman): Link (Commentary: Paul Bray)
(Also available on beIN Sports XTRA: Link)

16:15 Slovenia (-3.5) vs Hungary
Match Video (On Demand): Link (Commentary: Paul Bray)

18:30 Norway (-3) vs Sweden
Match Video (On Demand): Link (Commentary: Paul Bray)
(Also available on beIN Sports XTRA: Link)

Main Round Group I continues with some interesting contests. First up is Portugal vs Iceland. Fresh off a 10 goal victory over Sweden, Portugal is now a favorite and a contender for the semifinals. Are they really for real? Or can Iceland put those upstarts in their place and keep their hopes for a SF alive? Then Slovenia takes on Hungary. Which Hungary will show up? The team that dismantled Iceland or the team that was dismantled by Norway? Is Slovenia really the 2nd best team here? The nightcap features hosts Sweden taking on undefeated Norway. Still reeling from a 10 goal loss to Portugal can the hosts regroup for a big upset? Or, does Norway just keep rolling along?

So many questions. Let’s get some answers.

Betting Predictions

For this tournament we’re doing some betting predictions using an imaginary starting bankroll of a 1,000 Euros. Joining me will be professional handball bettor, Samo Košmerl, from Slovenia.

Odds are from the 10 Bet Sportsbook <Open an account>

John’s Pick(s):
– Current Bankroll: 673.94 Euros
– Yesterday’s Result: Spain (-5) vs Austria 1.86/-116; Bet 100 Euros to win 86.20 ; Lost Euros as Austria put up a good fight prior to losing 30-26.
– Today’s Pick: Money Line bet: Iceland (to win) vs Portugal 2.70/+170; Bet 100 Euros to win 170; When a team used to being the underdog becomes the favorite at some point there’s usually a bit of a let down. I think that let down comes down today in the form of an Iceland victory.

Samo’s Pick(s):
– Current Bankroll: 1,539.61 Euros
– Yesterday’s Results: Croatia (-1) vs Germany (-114/1.87); Bet 100 Euros to win 87.71; Result was a push thanks to Sego’s save to preserve a 25-24 Croatia victory.
– Today’s Pick: Sweden(+4) vs Norway (-119/1.84); Bet 100 Euros to win 84; Before the Euro started Sweden were 6/1 to win this Euro while Norway were 8/1. There is no doubt Norway is in much better form and are favorites today, but I think the bookies are overreacting a bit. Sweden is still a great team, there are two new players in the squad for today (Pettersson and Lagergren) and they are playing at home. I think it should be fairly close game.

The 2020 Men’s European Handball Championships continues today with three matches from Main Round Group I. Here are the video links, odds and some predictions for those matches.

How to Watch Spoiler Free: Link

Saturday, 18 January
All Times Local (CET) / US ET is -6 hrs)
Odds courtesy of 10Bet <Open an account>

IHF Preview of day’s matches: Link

Main Round Group I (Vienna, Austria)

16:00 Belarus (-0.5) vs Czech Republic
Match Video (On Demand): Link (Commentary: Clayton Lucas)

18:15 Spain (-5) vs Austria
Match Video (On Demand): Link (Commentary: Clayton Lucas)

20:30 Germany vs Croatia (-1)
Match Video (On Demand): Link (Commentary: Clayton Lucas)

Main Round Group I play continues in Vienna. First up is a match between two teams (Belarus and the Czech Republic) looking for their first Main Round win. Austria will then take on Group leaders Spain. And, then the night cap is the match of the day between Germany and Croatia. There are several matches left to be played, but the winner of this match will be in good shape to make the semifinals.

Betting Predictions

For this tournament we’re doing some betting predictions using an imaginary starting bankroll of a 1,000 Euros. Joining me will be professional handball bettor, Samo Košmerl, from Slovenia.

Odds are from the 10 Bet Sportsbook <Open an account>

John’s Pick(s):
– Current Bankroll: 773.94 Euros
– Yesterday’s Result:   Iceland (+1.5) vs Slovenia 1.82/-121; Bet 100 Euros to win 82.64; Lost 100 Euros Slovenia won 30-27.
– Today’s Pick: Spain (-5) vs Austria 1.86/-116; Bet 100 Euros to win 86.20; Spain has won every match by 6 goals or more in this tournament. Austria will have the home crowd behind them, but Spain are clearly the better team. I look for them to get a big lead to silence the crowd and then coast to victory.

Samo’s Pick(s):
– Current Bankroll: 1,539.61 Euros
– Yesterday’s Results: Race to 30 goals; Norway 2.45/+155; (Norway scores 30 goals first) Bet 200 Euros to win 290. Win 290 Euros; Norway scored 36 goals on its way to a 36-29 win that wasn’t even that close.
– Today’s Pick: Croatia (-1) vs Germany (-114/1.87); Bet 100 Euros to win 87.71; This a huge game and the winner will be super close to a semifinal. But, I think we have clear favorite here and it is Croatia. Their back line is just amazing, Cindric is in great form and I think they are better on every position, except GKs. But, Šego is not bad and if he has an okish day I think Croatia will collect 2 super important points today.

The 2020 Men’s European Handball Championships continues today with the first matches of Main Round Group II. Here are the video links, odds and some predictions for those matches.

How to Watch Spoiler Free: Link

Friday, 17 January
All Times Local (CET) / US ET is -6 hrs)
Odds courtesy of 10Bet <Open an account>

IHF Preview of day’s matches: Link

Main Round Group II (Malmo, Sweden)

16:00 Slovenia (-1.5) vs Iceland
Match Video (On Demand): Link (Commentary: Paul Bray)

18:15 Norway (-4.5) vs Hungary
Match Video (On Demand): Link (Commentary: Paul Bray)

20:30 Sweden (-3) vs Portugal
Match Video (On Demand): Link (Commentary: Paul Bray)

Main Round Group II starts today with pre-tournament favorites Denmark and France… at home thanks to Hungary and Portugal, respectively. The day’s action starts with Slovenia (now a slight favorite to make the semifinals) facing Iceland. Norway (now the Group favorite) faces giant killers, Hungary. Sweden, which suffered an earlier loss vs Slovenia, also now has realistic dreams of reaching the semifinals and takes on Portugal.

Betting Predictions

For this tournament we’re doing some betting predictions using an imaginary starting bankroll of a 1,000 Euros. Joining me will be professional handball bettor, Samo Košmerl, from Slovenia.

Odds are from the 10 Bet Sportsbook <Open an account>

John’s Pick(s):
– Current Bankroll: 873.94 Euros
– Yesterday’s Result: Alternate point spread; Germany (-3.5) vs Belarus 2.1/+110; Bet 100 Euros to win 110 ; Won 110 Euros as Germany dominated the match from start to finish for a 31-23 victory. Sometimes it just seems all too easy.
– Today’s Pick: Iceland (+1.5) vs Slovenia 1.82/-121; Bet 100 Euros to win 82.64; In preliminary play Iceland beat Denmark (31-30) and Russia (34-23) and seemed well on their way to another win vs Hungary… Then a disastrous 2nd half saw them score only 6 goals and they loss 24-18. I think that was just an erratic blip and Aron Palmarsson will come back in fine form today. Slovenia took 3 wins in Group play, but I think their group was weaker. At best this game should be a pickem. I’ll take the Slovenia and the bonus 1.5 goals.

Samo’s Pick(s):
– Current Bankroll: 1,249.61 Euros
– Yesterday’s Results: Czech LW, Jakub Hrstka (under 3.5 goals) (1.76/-130); Bet 100 Euros to win 76.92. Win 76.92 Euros as Hrstka scored only 1 goal.
– Today’s Pick: Race to 30 goals; Norway 2.45/+155; (Norway scores 30 goals first) Bet 200 Euros to win 290; Norway have the best attack at the moment and their transition from defense to offense is really amazing. I just don’t see how can Hungary stop them. Sagosen is in great form and this young team from Hungary will have a lot of problems in defense today. Sipos is only playing in defense and this will hurt them as there just won’t be enough time to get him on the cour. Norway should score 30+ today.

The 2020 Men’s European Handball Championships continues today with the first matches of Main Round Group I. Here are the video links, odds and some predictions for those matches.

How to Watch Spoiler Free: Link

Thursday, 16 January
All Times Local (CET) / US ET is -6 hrs)
Odds courtesy of 10Bet <Open an account>

IHF Preview of day’s matches: Link

Main Round Group I (Vienna, Austria)

16:00 Spain (-6.5) vs Czech Republic
Match Video (Live): Link (Commentary: Clayton Lucas)

18:15 Croatia (-3.5) vs Austria
Match Video (Live): Link (Commentary: Clayton Lucas)

20:30 Germany (-2.5) vs Belarus
Match Video (Live): Link (Commentary: Clayton Lucas)

Main Round Group I starts today with the pre-tournament favorites (Spain, Germany and Croatia) all favored to pick up wins. Spain is hugely favored over the Czech Republic, but Croatia could get a strong challenge from hosts, Austria, in Vienna. Belarus has also played well so far in the tournament and it will be interesting to see how they fare against a German side that struggled a bit in the preliminary round.

Betting Predictions

For this tournament we’re doing some betting predictions using an imaginary starting bankroll of a 1,000 Euros. Joining me will be professional handball bettor, Samo Košmerl, from Slovenia.

Odds are from the 10 Bet Sportsbook <Open an account>

John’s Pick(s):
– Current Bankroll: 763.94 Euros
– Tuesday’s Result:   Czech Republic (-2.5) vs Ukraine; Wager 100 Euros to win 82.64; Won 82.64 Euros as the Czech Republic pulled away at the end for a 23-19 win.
– Today’s Pick: Alternate point spread; Germany (-3.5) vs Belarus 2.1/+110; Bet 100 Euros to win 110; Germany was unimpressive in the preliminary round and they are a more capable side than they’ve shown. A better defensive performance should lead to a comfortable win.

Samo’s Pick(s):
– Current Bankroll: 1,172.69 Euros
– Tuesday’s Results:
Bet 1: Switzerland’s Marvin Lier under 3.5 goals scored (+100/2.0) Bet 100 Euros to win 100; Lier scored 3 goals- Win 100 Euros
Bet 2: Blaz Janc under 4.5 goals scored (-120/1.83); Bet 100 Euros to win 83.33; Janc scored 4 goals- win 83.33
Bet 3: Poland-Sweden; Over 54.5 goals (-114/1.87); Bet 100 Euros to win 87.71: Final score: SWE 28 – POL 26 for 54 goals. Lose 100 Euros
– Today’s Pick: Czech LW, Jakub Hrstka (under 3.5 goals) (1.76/-130); Bet 100 Euros to win 76.92; It will be very interesting to see the Czech attack against this great defense that Spain is playing. I don’t think they will be successful today as they didn’t convince me in the preliminary round where they played against average teams. Spain will be on different level and I don’t see Hrstka scoring 4 goals.

The 2020 Men’s European Handball Championships has a light day with only the final 2 matches Group A. All of the other Preliminary Round Groups have concluded play and Main Round Group play starts tomorrow. Here are the video links, odds and some predictions for those matches.

How to Watch Spoiler Free: Link

Wednesday, 15 January
All Times Local (CET) / US ET is -6 hrs)
Odds courtesy of 10Bet <Open an account>

IHF Preview of day’s matches: Link

Group E (Malmo, Sweden)

18:15 Hungary vs Iceland (-2.5)
Match Video (On Demand) Link: Commentary: Paul Bray)

20:30 Denmark (-7.5) vs Russia
Match Video (On Demand): Link (Commentary: Paul Bray)

Group E concludes today and there’s some real suspense. In the first match Iceland will have the pseudo Danish home crowd in Malmo behind them as they take on Hungary. This is because a win by Hungary will shockingly eliminate the current World Champions from the tournament. Iceland has already qualified, but they would prefer to win and take the 2 points from their big win over Denmark with them to the Main Round. After this match Denmark will be big favorites over Russia.
Note: there is also an unlikely scenario involving 1 goal wins: Link

Betting Predictions

For this tournament we’re doing some betting predictions using an imaginary starting bankroll of a 1,000 Euros. Joining me will be professional handball bettor, Samo Košmerl, from Slovenia.

Odds are from the 10 Bet Sportsbook <Open an account>

John’s Pick(s):
– Current Bankroll: 763.94 Euros
– Yesterday’s Result:   Czech Republic (-2.5) vs Ukraine; Wager 100 Euros to win 82.64; Won 82.64 Euros as the Czech Republic pulled away at the end for a 23-19 win.
– Today’s Pick: No picks today.

Samo’s Pick(s):
– Current Bankroll: 1,172.69 Euros
– Yesterday’s Results:
Bet 1: Switzerland’s Marvin Lier under 3.5 goals scored (+100/2.0) Bet 100 Euros to win 100; Lier scored 3 goals- Win 100 Euros
Bet 2: Blaz Janc under 4.5 goals scored (-120/1.83); Bet 100 Euros to win 83.33; Janc scored 4 goals- win 83.33
Bet 3: Poland-Sweden; Over 54.5 goals (-114/1.87); Bet 100 Euros to win 87.71: Final score: SWE 28 – POL 26 for 54 goals. Lose 100 Euros
– Today’s Picks: No picks today.

The 2020 Men’s European Handball Championships continues today with the final 6 matches from Groups B, D and F. Here are the video links, odds and some predictions for those matches.

How to Watch Spoiler Free: Link

Tuesday, 14 January
All Times Local (CET) / US ET is -6 hrs)
Odds courtesy of 10Bet <Open an account>

IHF Preview of day’s matches: Link

Group B (Vienna, Austria)

18:15 Austria (-1.5) vs N. Macedonia
Match Video (On Demand): Link (Commentary: Clayton Lucas)

20:30 Czech Republic (-2.5) vs Ukraine
Match Video (On Demand): Link (No Commentary)

If you’re looking for drama with every team having a chance to qualify, look no further. Here’s the current standings.

And, what are the scenarios for advancing? It’s complicated, and got its own article to explain: Link

Group D (Trondheim, Norway)

18:15 Bosnia & Herzegovina vs France (-5.5)
Match Video (On Demand): Link ( Commentary: Paul Bray )

20:30 Norway (-5.5) vs Portugal
Match Video (On Demand): Link (Commentary: Paul Bray)

Well, if at the start of the tournament somebody told me that the France-Bosnia game would have no bearing on which teams went through I wouldn’t have been surprised. Just mighty France resting some players after beating Portugal and Norway. Of course, the opposite is true in reality. Meanwhile, Portugal and Norway will essentially play their first Main Round match. Who would have thunk it?

Group F (Gothenburg, Sweden)

18:15 Switzerland vs Slovenia (-4.5)
Match Video (On Demand): Link (No Commentary)

20:30 Sweden (-6) vs Poland
Match Video (On Demand): Link (Commentary: Clayton Lucas)

Here’s the current standings:

In theory, every team can advance today, but the scenarios for Switzerland require and Poland require some big upsets and some big margins of victory. Barring some crazy outcomes Slovenia and Sweden will advance today. The scenarios are here: Link

Betting Predictions

For this tournament we’re doing some betting predictions using an imaginary starting bankroll of a 1,000 Euros. Joining me will be professional handball bettor, Samo Košmerl, from Slovenia.

Odds are from the 10 Bet Sportsbook <Open an account>

John’s Pick(s):
– Current Bankroll: 681.30 Euros
– Yesterday’s Result:  Belarus (-2.5) vs Montenegro. Bet 100 Euros to win 81.30. Won 81.30 as Belarus easily won 36-27. I guess I should have gone with that alternative point spread.
– Today’s Pick: Czech Republic (-2.5) vs Ukraine; Bet 100 Euros to win 82.64; I think the Czech Republic is clearly a better team than the Ukraine. And, with advancing to the Main Round on the line they will seek to put Ukraine out of the match early. My only second thoughts; The outcome of the first match. A Macedonian victory over Austria could possibly render the match meaningless to the Czech Republic. (and… if one were to make a bet after that match quickly it might be a smart opportunity)

Samo’s Pick(s):
– Current Bankroll: 1,089.36 Euros
– Yesterday’s Result: Two event parlay; Belarus to win (-370/1.27) vs Montenegro (Tie is no bet) and NL (+10.5 goals) vs Spain (-265/1.37); Wager 100 Euros to win 74. Lost 100 Euros The perils of parlay bets. Belarus came through, but the Netherlands lost 36-25. One measly half goal.
– Today’s Picks: Group F is all but decided and because of this I see several nice opportunities there:

Bet 1: Switzerland’s Marvin Lier under 3.5 goals scored (+100/2.0) Bet 100 Euros to win 100; I don’t think Switzerland will be getting a lot of fast breaks today. It also looks like Schmid is taking the penalty shots now so I don’t see how Lier can score 4+ against probably the best defense in the tournament so far.

Bet 2: Slovenia’s Blaz Janc under 4.5 goals scored (-120/1.83); Bet 100 Euros to win 83.33; In the first two matches Slovenia played with a pretty limited roster so today we should see some new rotations. RW, Blaz Janc, is a key player for Slovenia and he needs a bit of rest before the important Main Round games. Šoštaric is also a solid RW and I expect that Vranješ will give him at least 20 minutes today.

Bet 3: Poland-Sweden; Over 54.5 goals (-114/1.87); Bet 100 Euros to win 87.71; Slovenia should win the first match over Switzerland, so we can say Sweden is already in Main Round as they won’t lose by 11+ goals (the only way for Poland to advance to the Main Round). Sweden loves to play fast handball and we should see a lot of goals in game where the result is not important. Especially after they scored just 19 against Slovenia, they need to gain some confidence, fans love fast handball as well so I think 54.5 is a bit too low of a line for such match.

The 2020 Men’s European Handball Championships continues today with 2 matches each from Groups A, C and E. Groups A and C conclude today while Group E finishes up on Wednesday. Here are the video links, odds and some predictions for those matches.

How to Watch Spoiler Free: Link

Monday, 13 January
All Times Local (CET) / US ET is -6 hrs)
Odds courtesy of 10Bet

IHF Preview of day’s matches: Link

Group A (Graz, Austria)

18:15 Montenegro vs Belarus (-2.5)
Match Video (On Demand): Link (No Commentary)

20:30 Serbia vs Croatia (-5.5)
Match Video (On Demand): Link (Commentary: Clayton Lucas)

Croatia has already qualified for the main round and Serbia has been eliminated so their match will have no impact. Either Montenegro or Belarus will join Croatia and their match will decide who goes through. Belarus can win or draw while Montenegro needs to win the match.

Group C (Trondheim, Norway)

18:15 Latvia vs Germany (-9)
Match Video ( On Demand ): Link (Commentary: Clayton Lucas)

20:30 Spain (-8.5) vs Netherlands
Match Video ( On Demand ): Link (No Commentary)

On paper no team in Group C has either qualified or been eliminated from going through to the Main Round. But, in reality it would take some pretty surprising results for either Spain or Germany to not qualify. Spain would actually have to lose by 10 to the Netherlands to not qualify. Germany would have to first lose or draw to Latvia and then have the Netherlands beat Spain. Finally, Latvia’s qualification scenario really stretches credibility. They would need a 10 goal win over Germany and a Netherlands loss to Spain.

Group E (Malmo, Sweden)

18:15 Iceland (-3.5) vs Russia
Match Video ( On Demand ): Link (Commentary: Paul Bray)

20:30 Denmark (-6) vs Hungary
Match Video ( On Demand ): Link (Commentary: Paul Bray)

Group E has only played one round, so every side still has something to play for. In fact, after Iceland’s surprising win over Denmark, Denmark actually is essentially in a must win situation vs Hungary.

Betting Predictions

For this tournament we’ll be doing some betting predictions using an imaginary starting bankroll of a 1,000 Euros. Joining me is professional handball bettor, Samo Košmerl, from Slovenia.

John’s Pick(s):
– Current Bankroll: 600 Euros
– Yesterday’s Result: Alternative point spread: Norway (-3.5 goals) vs France; Lost 100 Euros as France put up a good fight losing 28-26. For a moment there at the end when Norway went up 3 I thought my big, break even bet was going to come through… Oh, well.
– Today’s Pick: Belarus (-2.5) vs Montenegro. Bet 100 Euros to win 81.30. I totally concur with Samo (see below) that Belarus is simply the better team here and will advance to the main round. Heck, I’m tempted to go big with an alternative point spread, but I’m still licking my wounds from yesterday. Therefore, I will simply go with the 50-50 point spread.

Samo’s Pick(s):
– Current Bankroll: 1,189.36 Euros
– Yesterday’s Result: Money Line bet Czech Republic (+130) v N. Macedonia; Wager 100 Euros to win 130. Won 130 Euros as the Czech Republic rallied for a 27-25 victory.
– Today’s Picks: Two event parlay; Belarus to win (-370/1.27) vs Montenegro (Tie is no bet) and NL (+10.5 goals) vs Spain (-265/1.37); Wager 100 Euros to win 74 (both outcomes must come through). Belarus is just a better team than Montenegro and should win this match. They just need a point and they will advance to Main Round. The Netherlands is playing solid handball and I also expect Spain will rest some key players as they only need to not lose today by 10 goals and they will advance with 2 points.

The 2020 Men’s European Handball Championships continues today with 2 matches each from Groups B, D and F. Here are the video links, odds and some predictions for those matches.

How to Watch Spoiler Free: Link

Sunday, 12 January
All Times Local (CET) / US ET is -6 hrs)
Odds courtesy of 10Bet

IHF Preview of day’s matches: Link

Group B (Vienna, Austria)

16:00 Czech Republic vs N. Macedonia (-0.5)
Match Video (On Demand): Link (No Commentary)

18:15 Austria (-4) vs Ukraine
Match Video (On Demand): Link (No Commentary)

The Czech Republic and N. Macedonia meet first in a match that could decide who goes through to the Main Round while Austria will be in good shape to qualify with a win over Ukraine.

Group D (Trondheim, Norway)

16:00 Bosnia & Herzegovina vs Portugal (-4.5)
Match Video (On Demand): Link ( Commentary: Paul Bray )

18:15 Norway vs France (Pick em)
Match Video (On Demand): Link (Commentary: Paul Bray)

Upstarts Portugal will look to go 2-0-0 vs Bosnia and then will watch the Norway vs France with a keen eye as to what it will mean for the final match day. The Norway vs France match could be epic. France is in a must win situation and arguably it is in a must win by 3 or 4 goals situation. The math is a little complicated, but if one envisions a 3-way tie (level on 4 pts) between France, Norway and Portugal goal differential in their 3 matches will be the decider. And, following their 3 goal loss to Portugal they are in a bit of a hole. A 4 goal win guarantees advancing and a 3 goal win probably does. And, they could also advance with a 2 or 1 goal victory, or even a draw, but they will want to win by more goals. But, can they even beat Norway in front of a hostile crowd? (see below for my prediction.)

Group F (Gothenburg, Sweden)

16:00 Switzerland (-2.5) vs Poland
Match Video (On Demand): Link (Commentary: Clayton Lucas)

18:15 Sweden (-2) vs Slovenia
Match Video (On Demand): Link (Commentary: Clayton Lucas)

Switzerland was man handled by Sweden (a 13 goal loss), but will seek to rebound against Poland. Sweden and Slovenia meet in a match that may carry through to the Main Round.

Betting Predictions

For this tournament we’re doing some betting predictions using an imaginary starting bankroll of a 1,000 Euros. Joining me will be professional handball bettor, Samo Košmerl, from Slovenia.

John’s Pick(s):
– Current Bankroll: 700 Euros
– Yesterday’s Result: Germany (+190) money line bet to win vs Spain; Wagered 100 Euros to win 190. Lost 100 Euros as Spain dominated the match from start to finish for a 33-26 victory.
– Today’s Pick: Alternative point spread: Norway (-3.5 goals) vs France; Wager 100 Euros to win 300. France’s 28-25 loss to Portugal on Friday might was one of the most lackluster, lifeless defeats I’ve ever seen for this storied side that’s won so many titles. Time and time again, though, France has rebounded from such poor performances. But… this is not the French team of old. Nikola Karabatic may be the GOAT, but at 35 with a bum foot he looks more like Tom Brady hanging around for one more season. Perhaps, I’m chasing my losses and reading too much into one really bad loss. Perhaps… But, something tells me this is an end of an era. A really good Norway team playing in front of a roaring crowd. A really good Norway team knowing that a loss here could put them out of the semifinals. I don’t think this French team has it in them and I think this game could get out of hand which is why I’m taking the alternative spread.

Samo’s Pick(s):
– Current Bankroll: 1,059.36 Euros
– Yesterday’s Result: Netherlands (-130) money line bet to win vs Latvia; Wager 100 Euros to win 79.36. Won 79.36 Euros as Netherlands dominated the match for a 32-24 victory.
– Today’s Pick: Money Line bet Czech Republic (+130) v N. Macedonia; Wager 100 Euros to win 130. I am going with Czech Republic again. Against Austria their GKs had just 3!! saves. That and a bit of help from the refs is why Austria won that match. Kiril Lazarov saved North Macedonia in the last seconds against Ukraine which is probably the worst team in the tournament. For me, the Czech Republic are favorites here and if their GK, Mrkva, can save more than 6% of shots, they should take an important 2 points today.

The 2020 Men’s European Handball Championships continues today with 2 matches each from Groups A, C and E. Here are the video links, odds and some predictions for those matches.

How to Watch Spoiler Free: Link

Saturday, 11 January
All Times Local (CET) / US ET is -6 hrs)
Odds courtesy of 10Bet

IHF Preview of day’s matches: Link

Group A (Graz, Austria)

16:00 Croatia (-3) vs Belarus
Match Video (On Demand): Link (No Commentary)

18:15 Montenegro vs Serbia (-.5)
Match Video (On Demand): Link (No Commentary)

Croatia and Belarus both won their openers comfortably, so today’s result could very well count in the Main Round standings. Montenegro and Serbia will play what is likely an elimination match

Group C (Trondheim, Norway)

16:00 Latvia vs Netherlands (-1)
Match Video (On Demand): Link (Commentary: Clayton Lucas)

18:15 Spain (-1.5) vs Germany
Match Video (On Demand): Link (Commentary: Clayton Lucas)

Latvia and the Netherlands will both be gunning for their first ever European Championships while Spain and Germany play the match of the day. This result will surely count in the main round and the winner will even be well positioned to make the semifinals.

Group E (Malmo, Sweden)

16:00 Hungary vs Russia (-1)
Match Video (On Demand): Link (Commentary: Paul Bray)

18:15 Denmark (-5) vs Iceland
Match Video (On Demand): Link (Commentary: Paul Bray)

Group E has its first matches of the tournament. The matches will be played in Malmo, which is just across the bridge from Copenhagen so expect a good Danish crowd.

Betting Predictions

For this tournament we’ll be doing some betting predictions using an imaginary starting bankroll of a 1,000 Euros. Joining me is professional handball bettor, Samo Košmerl, from Slovenia.

John’s Pick(s):
– Current Bankroll: 800 Euros
– Yesterday’s Result: Norway (-7.5 goals) vs Bosnia; Wager 100 Euros to win 80. Lost 100 Euros as Bosnia’s GK, Buric was sharp in goal and Norway got off to a slow start resulting in just a 6 goal, 32-26 victory.
– Today’s Pick: Germany (+190) money line bet to win vs Spain; Wager 100 Euros to win 190. Spain and Germany meet for a crucial match that will give the winner one foot into the semifinals. Spain’s Joan Canellas says it’s a 50-50 match. I concur and +190 is too good of an advantage to pass up on a match that I genuinely think could go either way.

Samo’s Pick(s):
– Current Bankroll: 980 Euros
– Yesterday’s Result: Czech Republic (+1) v Austria; Wager 100 Euros to win 90. Lost 100 Euros as Austria won 32-29.
– Today’s Pick: Netherlands (-130) money line bet to win vs Latvia; Wager 100 Euros to win 79.36. I don’t like one man teams and Latvia is for sure one of them. Kristopans is an amazing player, but the European Championship is the best competition in the world and you need more than one player to win games in this tournament. I really like the Netherlands here; they are playing modern handball; they look like a team and I believe they will collect 2 points today.

The 2020 Men’s European Handball Championships continues today with 2 matches each from Groups B, D and F. Here are the video links, odds and some predictions for those matches.

IMPORTANT STEPS TO FOLLOW FOR “SPOILER FREE” ON DEMAND VIDEO WATCHING:
1) Cover up the right half of your screen
2) Click on the desired “On Demand” video link
3) Watch the short advertisement
4) Click on the full screen icon in the lower right hand corner of the video
5) Enjoy the match “spoiler free”

Note: If you don’t follow these instructions you will be exposed to the menu on the right side of your screen that may include words like “Netherlands shocks Germany in Opener!” (I’m not saying that’s going to happen, just that if it did happen, you can bet there would be a headline stating that.) Also, remember that if you click out of full screen mode you should also cover up the right side since that menu will immediately appear.

Friday, 10 January
All Times Local (CET) / US ET is -6 hrs)
Odds courtesy of 10Bet

IHF Preview of day’s matches: Link

Group B (Vienna, Austria)

18:15 Czech Republic vs Austria (-1) vs Serbia
Match Video (On Demand): Link (Commentary: Paul Bray)

2030 N Macedonia (-4) vs Ukraine
Match Video (On Demand): Link (No Commentary)

Group D (Trondheim, Norway)

18:15 France (-7) vs Portugal
Match Video (On Demand): Link (No Commentary)

2030 Norway (-7.5) vs Bosnia & Herzegovina
Match Video (On Demand): Link (Commentary: Paul Bray)

Group F (Gothenburg, Sweden)

18:15 Slovenia (-7) vs Poland
Match Video (On Demand): Link (Commentary: Clayton Lucas)

2030 Sweden (-5.5) vs Switzerland
Match Video (On Demand): Link (Commentary: Clayton Lucas)

Betting Predictions

For this tournament we’ll be doing some betting predictions using an imaginary starting bankroll of a 1,000 Euros. Joining me will be professional handball bettor, Samo Košmerl, from Slovenia.

John’s Pick(s):
– Current Bankroll: 900 Euros
– Yesterday’s Result: Netherlands (+7.5 goals) vs Germany; Lost 100 Euros as Germany won 34-23 (It was a great bet for 45 minutes…)
– Today’s Pick: Norway (-7.5 goals) vs Bosnia; Wager 100 Euros to win 80. With the home crowd behind them in Trondheim and a big match looming vs France on Sunday, Norway will seek to put away this game early.

Samo’s Pick(s):
– Current Bankroll: 1,080 Euros
– Yesterday’s Result Handicap Bet: Croatia (-5.5) vs Montenegro; Wager 100 Euros to win 80. Croat eked out a 27-21 win. Doesn’t matter how… They got it done.
– Today’s Pick: Czech Republic (+1) v Austria; Wager 100 Euros to win 90. I don’t think home advantage + Bilyk will be enough for Austria. The Czech Republic is playing decent handball lately and they have a lot of quality with Kasparek, Zdrahala and Horak. Austria is without Hermann which is big blow imo. Half of the Austrian team is playing in Austrian league, while half of the Czech Republic players are playing in Germany. And there is huge difference between those two countries.

The 2020 Men’s European Handball Championships start today with 4 matches. Here are the video links, odds and some predictions for those matches.

IMPORTANT STEPS TO FOLLOW FOR “SPOILER FREE” ON DEMAND VIDEO WATCHING:
1) Cover up the right half of your screen
2) Click on the desired “On Demand” video link
3) Watch the short advertisement
4) Click on the full screen icon in the lower right hand corner of the video
5) Enjoy the match “spoiler free”

Note: If you don’t follow these instructions you will be exposed to the menu on the right side of your screen that may include words like “Netherlands shocks Germany in Opener!” (I’m not saying that’s going to happen, just that if it did happen, you can bet there would be a headline stating that.) Also, remember that if you click out of full screen mode you should also cover up the right side since that menu will immediately appear.

Thursday, 9 January
All Times Local (CET) / US ET is -6 hrs)
Odds courtesy of 10Bet

IHF Preview of day’s matches: Link

Group A (Graz, Austria)

18:15 Belarus (-2.5) vs Serbia
Match Video (On Demand): Link (Commentary: Clayton Lucas)

2030 Croatia (-5.5) vs Montenegro
Match Video (Live): Link (Commentary: Clayton Lucas)
Match Video (On Demand): Link

Group A starts with a match between Belarus and Serbia that might end up deciding 2nd place in the Group. Croatia is the favorite in the group and should have no problem with Montenegro.

Group C (Trondheim, Norway)

18:15 Germany (-7.5) vs Netherlands
Match Video (On Demand): Link (Commentary: Paul Bray)

2030 Spain (-10.5) vs Latvia
Match Video (Live): Link (Commentary: Paul Bray)
Match Video (On Demand): Link

Germany and Spain are heavy favorites to advance from this group. If there’s going to be a surprise, though, in Group C it will probably take place today.

Betting Predictions

For this tournament we’ll be doing some betting predictions using an imaginary bankroll of a 1,000 Euros. Joining me will be professional handball bettor, Samo Košmerl, from Slovenia.

John’s Pick(s):
– Current Bankroll: 1,000 Euros
– Handicap Bet: Netherlands (+7.5 goals) vs Germany; Wager 100 Euros to win 79.36. The Netherlands will be debuting in the competition and have several players playing in Germany. They won’t be in awe and will play with an emotional high. They’ll keep it close, but is will slip away towards the end.

Samo’s Pick(s):
– Current Bankroll: 1,000 Euros
– Handicap Bet: Croatia (-5.5) vs Montenegro; Wager 100 Euros to win 80. The first match is always very important for Croatia and there should be a lot of Croatian fans in Graz. Montenegro is missing three very important players in Borozan, Vujović and Božović and I just don’t see them being even close to Croatia tonight.